1962 Willys Wagon - 2008 Top Truck Challenge Finalist

Believe it or not, what you're looking at is the Willys original paint from 1962. Hulbert says the only mods to the metal work of his Willys came from "crushing cars, trees, and a Sawzall." Exterior mods are sparse; a Warn 9.5ti winch, a homemade snorkel, a set of 49-inch IROKs, and a set of USA 6x6 16.5x12 wheels. What else do you really need?

Due to some last-minute changes in the Top Truck roster, Hoby Hulbert got the nod to participate in this year's event at the very last minute. Fortunately, Hulbert and his rig were ready for action. After a quick rollcage install to meet the competition requirements, he arrived in Hollister with his '62 Willys Wagon. Can a 46-year-old truck with only a $7,000 investment survive Top Truck? We'll let you know next month.

Hulbert says that over the 9 years he and his wife Amy have owned the Willys "as something broke we just kept upgrading." And stout upgrades they are, demonstrated by the pair of Rockwell 2 1/2-ton axles. The rear Rockwell has a Detroit Locker and a USA 6x6 pinion brake and it's fed power by an owner-fabbed driveshaft with 1410 and 1480 U-joints. The rear suspension is ultra-simple and consists of leaf springs sourced from an International Travelall. Shocks? Hulbert don't need no stinkin' shocks.